Classic Ski Lifts

The best classic ski lifts, from Vermont to Colorado, let you relax, reflect and enjoy the scenery

Dec. 27, 2013 5:08 p.m. ET

IS FASTER ALWAYS better? Ski resorts seem to think so—they're constantly installing zippier lifts, so guests can ski more and wait less. Case in point: Breckenridge Ski Resort in central Colorado just expanded its terrain by nearly 25% with the six-person, high-speed Kensho Superchair, unveiled on Christmas Day. The new lift provides access to Peak 6 of the Tenmile Range and 543 acres of powder that had been off-limits to all but backcountry skiers. It will hum along at a maximum speed of 1,000 feet per minute, and can funnel...